What Size Is an ATV License Plate? OHV Plate Size and Mounting Guide
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What Size Is an ATV License Plate? OHV Plate Size and Mounting Guide
If you need to install a license plate on an ATV, one of the first questions is usually: What size is an ATV license plate?
Many ATV, OHV, and motorcycle-style license plates used in the United States and Canada measure approximately 4 inches tall by 7 inches wide. However, plate dimensions and mounting requirements can vary depending on the state, province, vehicle classification, and type of registration.
Before ordering a bracket, it is important to measure your actual plate and confirm your local requirements.
What Is the Standard ATV License Plate Size?
A common ATV and OHV license plate size is:
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4 inches tall
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7 inches wide
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Rectangular, with two mounting holes near the upper edge
This is also a common size for motorcycle-style plates. Because many ATVs are registered with smaller plates instead of full-size automobile plates, a 4x7-inch bracket works for many popular machines.
Elite Engineering’s direct-fit ATV and OHV license plate brackets are designed around this common 4x7-inch plate size.
Are All ATV License Plates the Same Size?
No. ATV license plate sizes are not necessarily identical everywhere.
The plate you receive can depend on:
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Your state or province
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Whether the machine is registered as an ATV, OHV or motorcycle
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Whether it is approved for limited street use
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Local registration and display requirements
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Changes in plate designs over time
Always measure your physical plate before choosing a bracket. You should also check your state’s current registration rules to determine where and how the plate must be displayed.
How to Measure Your ATV License Plate
Measuring the plate only takes a few minutes.
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Measure the plate from left to right.
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Measure its height from top to bottom.
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Measure the distance between the mounting-hole centers.
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Note whether the holes are located at the top, bottom or all four corners.
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Check the intended mounting area on your ATV.
If your plate measures approximately 4x7 inches, it should fit a bracket designed for a standard motorcycle or OHV plate.
Avoid assuming that any bracket labeled “universal” will fit correctly. Some universal mounts require drilling, oversized clamps or modifications that leave the plate in an awkward location.
Where Should an ATV License Plate Be Mounted?
The best location depends on the ATV and local requirements, but the plate should generally be:
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Clearly visible from the required direction
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Securely attached to the machine
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Away from the tires, exhaust and suspension
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Protected from trail obstacles when possible
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Positioned so it does not interfere with racks or cargo
A model-specific bracket provides a dedicated mounting location without forcing you to drill into plastic body panels.
For example, the Polaris Sportsman ATV license plate bracket mounts directly to the rear frame and supports a standard 4x7-inch plate.
Why Mounting the Plate Directly to Plastic Can Be a Problem
Drilling holes in an ATV’s plastic bodywork might appear to be the simplest option, but ATV plastics are not always a dependable mounting surface.
Off-road riding exposes the plate to:
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Continuous engine and trail vibration
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Mud, rocks and tree branches
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Flexing body panels
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Impacts from rough terrain
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Wind and water resistance
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Snow and ice buildup
Over time, the mounting holes can enlarge or crack. The plate may then vibrate, bend or fall off.
A bracket that attaches to the ATV’s frame or another solid factory mounting point transfers these forces into a stronger part of the machine.
Choosing the Correct ATV License Plate Bracket
Look for a bracket that provides:
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Model-specific fitment
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Support for your plate’s dimensions
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Durable aluminum construction
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A secure frame-mounted installation
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Proper clearance from the exhaust and tires
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Minimal or no drilling
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Included mounting hardware when possible
Elite Engineering manufactures direct-fit brackets for popular Polaris, Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki machines.
Available options include:
Popular 4x7 ATV License Plate Mounting Options
Polaris Sportsman
The Polaris Sportsman 400, 450, 500, 570, 600, 700 and 800 license plate bracket provides a clean rear-frame mounting location for compatible Sportsman models.
Honda Foreman, Rancher and Rubicon
The Honda Foreman, Rancher and Rubicon license plate bracket mounts securely at the rear of compatible Honda utility ATVs without drilling into the bodywork.
Yamaha YFZ450, Raptor and Honda TRX450R
Sport ATV owners can use the Yamaha YFZ450, Raptor 660/700 and Honda TRX450R license plate bracket for a compact rear-facing installation beneath the grab-bar area on compatible models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a motorcycle license plate bracket fit an ATV plate?
It may fit if both plates use the same dimensions and mounting-hole arrangement. Measure your plate and compare it with the bracket specifications before ordering.
What size plate fits Elite Engineering ATV brackets?
Many Elite Engineering ATV brackets are designed to hold the common 4x7-inch motorcycle or OHV license plate. Check the individual product page to confirm fitment for your vehicle and plate.
Can I drill the plate directly into my ATV’s plastic?
You can, but it may eventually cause the plastic to crack or the mounting holes to enlarge. A frame-mounted bracket generally provides a more secure and durable installation.
Do I need a light for my ATV license plate?
Lighting requirements vary depending on where and how the ATV is operated. Check the current regulations in your state or province, especially if the ATV will be driven on public roads.
Does an ATV license plate have to face the rear?
Requirements vary by location and vehicle classification. Confirm the required plate position and visibility with your local motor vehicle or OHV authority.
Find the Right Bracket for Your ATV
The plate itself may be small, but its mounting location has to withstand vibration, mud and rough terrain. A properly fitted bracket keeps the plate secure while avoiding unnecessary holes in your ATV.
Shop direct-fit ATV and OHV license plate brackets from Elite Engineering and choose the mounting solution designed for your machine.